Historical shoreline recoveries of drifting objects: an aid for future shoreline utilization

Historical recoveries (1875-1984) of 4262 drifting objects have been grouped within 1,102 one-mile segments of Juan de Fuca Strait and approaches. Histograms of the recoveries by segment reveal areas where drifting objects tend to collect. Three-quarters of the recoveries were made within 10% of the total shoreline, comprised primarily of areas of onshore flow driven by tidal eddies. These data will aid in the future recovery of drifting objects of concern and in the siting of facilities so that impacts to sensitive shorelines can be minimized.<>